The teaching book A recipe is a slippery creature. Understanding how to throw a certain combination of ingredients into a pot and make something edible is one thing. Truly feeling the intention behind it? That's another.

The chemistry of haute cuisine This week, Chang is coming to Harvard to take part in "Science and Cooking: From Haute Cuisine to the Science of Soft Matter," a new lecture series devoted to the science of food that pairs renowned chefs with Harvard scientists.

When I decided to let a hive of bees into my life, I didn't know whether it would be totally sweet — or a complete buzzkill You probably don't measure bees in terms of pounds. You probably don't measure bees at all.

Strange tales There was a wedding, a funeral (for the Long Island Iced Tea), fried alligator, mechanical bulls, and Ron Jeremy on harmonica. Boston bartenders, who were there in full force, can attest to all of it.

Scentless Apprentice Six years ago, while jogging in Brookline, aspiring chef Molly Birnbaum was struck by an oncoming Ford. The impact broke her pelvis and shattered her skull. But worst of all, it mangled her olfactory nerves, destroying Birnbaum's sense of smell and her ability to taste all but the most overpowering of flavors.

Don't bother cooking this Turkey Day; check out our best meal-deals around town and spare yourself. Cooking a full Thanksgiving feast can be a huge energy-suck, especially for those of us who work all week long. If you're still dying to bite into a juicy turkey and stuff your face full of delectible stuffing, but don't have the energy to expend (or you just can't or hate to cook), consider going out to eat for one of these fantabulous Thanksgiving Day deals.